1783 Spain 8 Escudos - Charles III - NGC AU55

This 1783 Spanish 8 Escudos from the Madrid Mint is a handsome and historically significant gold issue struck under King Charles III - one of the most admired monarchs of the Bourbon era. Certified AU55 by NGC, it displays exceptional eye appeal for the grade, with warm original color, strong detail in the portrait, and a sharply rendered royal shield on the reverse. High-quality examples of Spanish colonial gold continue to gain strong collector demand, and this AU55 piece offers outstanding value within the series.

Struck during a period of major global influence for Spain, these large gold coins circulated throughout Europe and the Americas as a foundation of international trade. Under Charles III, Spain underwent sweeping economic and administrative reforms, expanding its global presence while modernizing its coinage system. The 8 Escudos, widely known as the “Spanish Doubloon,” became one of the most recognized and trusted gold coins in the world - accepted everywhere from Madrid to Mexico City to New Orleans.

The obverse presents a well-executed bust of Charles III, whose dignified portrait is framed by sharp legends and a full 1783 date. His distinctive Bourbon-style cuirass and curls show visible texture even at this About Uncirculated level. On the reverse, Spain’s elaborate crowned coat of arms remains boldly struck, showcasing deep detail in the lions, castles, fleurs-de-lis, and the Bourbon escutcheon. The surrounding chain of the Order of the Golden Fleece is crisp, confirming a strong original strike.

NGC’s AU55 grade reflects light circulation with excellent remaining luster and no major distractions—impressive for an 18th-century gold issue. The surfaces are attractive, fully natural, and free from the heavy handling often found on coins of this size and age. As a large gold “Doubloon,” the 8 Escudos denomination is always in high demand, but attractively preserved examples like this are especially tough to secure.

With its strong strike, appealing color, and classic design, this 1783 8 Escudos is ideal for collectors of Spanish gold, world gold type sets, or anyone looking to acquire a historically important large-format piece of genuine 18th-century bullion.

The coin pictured is the exact coin you will receive.